State Responsibilities in Educating and Training the Public for the Beneficial use of Social Media

Abstract

Social media has become one of the most influential communication technologies of the contemporary world. It enables rapid communication, the exchange of knowledge, public participation, and the dissemination of useful information; at the same time, its misuse can contribute to misinformation, online harassment, defamation, indecent content, hostility, and social fragmentation. This dual character raises an important question concerning the responsibility of the state: should its role be confined to regulating harmful content, or should it also educate citizens in the ethical and constructive use of digital platforms? Drawing on the Sīrah of the Prophet Muḥammad , this article examines the principles that may guide public policy and social education in the digital age. It discusses the Prophetic approach to moral formation, including the correction of intention (iṣlāḥ al-niyyah), good character (ḥusn al-khulq), gradual instruction (tadarruj), wisdom (ḥikmah), and compassionate guidance. It also considers the juristic principle of Sadd al-Dharāʾiʿ—the blocking of means that may lead to harm—and its possible relevance to social-media governance. The article argues that effective state responsibility should combine education, public awareness, ethical guidance, proportionate legislation, accessible complaint mechanisms, and cooperation with educational institutions and digital platforms. The objective is not merely to restrict harmful behaviour, but to cultivate a digitally responsible society in which freedom of expression is balanced with public welfare, dignity, social harmony, and moral accountability.